MP explains incentive programs for voluntary military service

Incentive pay designed to encourage 18-25-year-olds to voluntarily join Ukraine’s Armed Forces may include one-time signing bonuses, according to Fedir Venislavskyi, a member of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, Defense, and Intelligence.

Speaking at a briefing at Media Center Ukraine, Venislavskyi explained the rationale behind these incentive pay offers.

“There have been discussions about raising military salaries. However, in my view as a legal expert, this could undermine the principle of equality, as it would result in soldiers performing the same duties side by side in the trenches but receiving different pay,” he stated.

As an alternative, Venislavskyi suggested that a direct one-time cash payout upon signing a contract—similar to a bonus—could be a more practical solution for newly enlisted service members.

“I believe the most viable option is a one-time payment upon contract signing. This would provide an opportunity to address certain social needs for those who commit to serving, making it a key part of the incentive pay package.”

Venislavskyi further noted that the introduction of these incentive programs could boost the number of those interested in joining the military, thereby strengthening the nation’s defense capabilities.

Read more: https://mediacenter.org.ua/news